[Results after palmar plate-osteosynthesis with angularly stable T-plate in 100 distal radius fractures: a...

In a prospective study a total of 124 unstable fractures of the distal radius were treated with a fixed angle palmar T-plate (Synthes Ltd., Switzerland). A total of 100 distal radius fractures were evaluated radiologically and clinically after a mean of 10 months after surgery. Loss of correction between postoperative and follow-up radiographs was assessed. The mean loss of the initial volar tilt was 3+/-4 degrees, the loss of radial inclination 0.4+/-2 degrees. The radial shortening was 1+/-1 mm. Flexion and extension of the injured wrist had recovered to an average of 81% of the normal, contralateral side. Radial and ulnar deviation were limited to 84%, pronation and supination reached 91%. Mass grip strength recovered to an average of 74% of the normal side. Using the functional outcome score according to Sarmiento,we obtained 15% excellent,56% good, 28% fair and 1% poor results. The complication rate was 10%. In conclusion, the operative treatment of unstable extra- and intraarticular fractures of the distal radius by fixed angle T-plateosteosynthesis shows good radiological and functional results.